When should you go to an allergy specialist?

22nd March 2023

When should you go to an allergy specialist?

We’re sure your GP is great. They’re fantastic as a person to talk to when you’re not sure if there’s something wrong with you. But a GP has to have a wide range of knowledge to be able to cover every possible ailment. They can’t be an expert on them all – that’s why they’ll refer you to a specialist if needed.

All of this to say that, when it comes to allergies, there’ll be a limit to what they can do for you. And that’s fine! It just means you might have to look for an allergy specialist to help you navigate your condition. You might wonder, though, at what point you need to go to one. So let’s figure that out.

Your symptoms aren’t improving

A good sign it’s time to take this to the next level is the prevalence of your symptoms. You might notice that you’ve been having repeat health problems that someone with allergies may have. This could include a blocked nose or sinus issues, constant rashes, or a lot of headaches. It’s especially worth visiting an allergist if these are causing you to lose sleep.

What an allergy specialist can do is help get to the bottom of where these symptoms are coming from. That’s going to be a crucial first step in stopping them. This can have the knock-on effect of preventing health issues that arise because of your other symptoms. For example, if you have regular sinus infections due to the blockages in your nose.

Over-the-counter drugs don’t work

Another sign you might want to see an allergy doctor is if the over-the-counter medicines don’t work. There are many you can get at your local chemist or supermarket – such as antihistamines popular with those with hay fever. But they might not always work.

If this is the case, it’s worth going to an allergist to talk about your next treatment options. By figuring out your symptoms and what your allergies are, they can prescribe more targeted or stronger medicines that should be more effective than those you can get yourself. If this is even the right option for you. They might have a solution you otherwise wouldn’t have considered.

You have other conditions

While an allergy isn’t always lethal (thankfully, something like anaphylaxis isn’t too common), they can have negative interactions with other health conditions. For example, someone who has an unknown allergy that causes breathing difficulties might want to see an allergist if they also have asthma. Those two conditions could make each other worse.

An allergy professional can help you manage your conditions and live a happier, healthier, and safer life. This might involve medication, as mentioned before, but it could also include a more structured treatment plan that takes all parts of your health into account.

Yes, a GP could help with all of these. But there will inevitably be niche questions about your allergies that they just can’t answer. We can’t expect them to know everything! An allergist is going to be much more capable at answering those queries and putting your mind at ease. You may find it’s the exact course of action you need.

If you’re looking for an allergy doctor to guide you through your concerns, then get in touch with us today. With a team of allergy experts ready to help you, we can help you live a freer life. Just call us on 02031 433 449 or register as a new patient by clicking here.

What exactly is an allergist and what do they do?

12th January 2022

What exactly is an allergist and what do they do?

Whenever we have a medical problem, the advice is always the same: go to the doctor. Us Brits certainly love putting it off if we can, but it’s vital that we look after ourselves. Especially in the time of COVID, it never hurts to get the advice you need – even if it’s over a phone call.

So those strange symptoms you’re having that feel like an allergy? Don’t put them off. Get them seen by a medical professional. This could be your GP, or you might look for more specific help. That’s where allergists come into the picture.

But what exactly is an allergist and how can they help? Let’s take a look…

What is an allergist?

GP’s are fantastic and you should see them when you need to. But they have to know about hundreds of possible ailments. It might be that they don’t see a symptom for what it is.

An allergist is effectively an allergy specialist. They’ll have the specific experience needed to hone in on an allergy diagnosis. With allergies on the rise, we definitely need more medical professionals dedicated to them.

They’ll also be more well-versed in the appropriate treatments. Again, a GP can easily do this, but going straight to an allergist can make the whole process quicker.

What does an allergist do?

Well they’ll get to work on figuring out what exactly your allergy is! It could be a food allergy or intolerance, skin condition such as eczema, or something respiratory like asthma.

Part of their treatment might involve getting you tested. This will help them find what triggers your allergies, shaping their recommendations to you. They’ll decide which test is best for you, whether it be a blood, patch, or skin test.

From there, they can help with not just treatment, but also avoiding your triggers. Their advice can help you prevent your allergies bothering you in the first place.

When should you see an allergist? If you ever have allergy-like symptoms with seemingly no cause – such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, or skin irritation – it might be a sign to find an allergy specialist.

There’s no reason you have to live with the difficulties. The sooner you get it diagnosed, the sooner you can go back to having a normal life. So don’t leave it until it’s too late! Talk to an expert today.

If you ever have any allergy concerns and are looking for an allergist, get in touch with the professionals at the London Allergy and Immunology Centre. You can register as a new patient here or call us on 02031 433 449.

Dos and don’ts for suspected allergies

17th February 2021

Dos and don’ts for suspected allergies

Do you get an itch in your throat after eating a particular food? Or do your hands get red, itchy, and flakey sometimes, but you aren’t sure why? Then you could have an allergy. 

Many people think if they ignore it, it’ll go away or they’ll get used to it. But this is a bad idea. Allergies can worsen and disrupt your life. Here are some dos and don’ts for if you suspect you have an allergy.

Don’t ignore it

It may be tempting to avoid symptoms, especially if they’re mild or only occur every so often, but allergies can worsen over time. Allergies to food, latex, and bee stings can get worse with exposure. A once harmless reaction could one day result in an anaphylactic reaction, so it’s best to take action as soon as possible.

Do get a test

The only way to know for certain that the symptoms you’re experiencing are caused by an allergy is to get tested. A test will tell you exactly what you’re allergic to so you can effectively avoid it and prevent flare-ups.

Don’t assume you’ll grow out of it

Allergies can sometimes pass or lessen in severity with time, but this isn’t always the case. While there are cases where children and babies have grown out of their allergies, it’s more likely that adults find they suddenly had allergies they didn’t have before.

Do learn about your allergy

You may be surprised to hear that allergens are in the least likely of places. For example, some vaccines contain egg, some marshmallows may contain selfish, and some sausages and processed meats may contain dairy. If your allergy is new to you, it’s worth being more cautious about what you put into your body.

Do take precautions 

In the case of allergies like pet dander or pollen, you can prepare for symptoms to make them more manageable. If hay fever season is creeping up, talk to your doctor about taking antihistamines. If you’re allergic to dust mites, it may help to use hypoallergenic bed sheets. It’s much more effective to stop an allergic reaction before it happens than to try to medicate it once it’s begun.

If you suspect you have an allergy, see an allergist. They’ll be able to give you expert advice on how to manage symptoms, improving your quality of life. Getting a test also puts your mind at ease and makes it easier for you to avoid triggering allergic reactions.

If you suspect you have an allergy, put your mind at ease. Book a test with Allergy Clinic London today on 02031 433 449.

Three questions to ask yourself when choosing an allergy doctor

3rd February 2021

Three questions to ask yourself when choosing an allergy doctor

Allergies can have a serious impact on our lives. They can feel invasive and leave us feeling out of control. That’s the reality for 20% of the UK’s population – more people suffer with an allergy in the UK than live in Greece.

If you’re one of the millions of people with an allergy, you might have decided to regain some control by finding an allergy doctor. Your allergy doctor will have an important role in your life, so it’s important you find one that suits you and your needs. Here are three important questions you should ask when choosing your allergy specialist.

What’s their experience?

Many feel more comfortable choosing health professionals with years of experience. Especially if you have a serious allergy or health conditions alongside your allergies. It’s important you research allergy doctors and practices online to look for the credentials and experience they have. Reviews from past or current patients can be helpful, too.

If you’re struggling to research allergy doctors, you can always ask for recommendations. Your GP, friends, or family may have some experience and know who best to recommend.

Are you comfortable with them?

Your comfort and health always come first. Ensure you feel comfortable talking to them. Pay attention to how they answer your questions. Did they welcome the question and respond in a way you understood? Or did they seem irritated and rushed through the answer?

Ask yourself if you’re comfortable with a doctor of any gender. You’ll be discussing personal information with them. If having a doctor of the same gender would put you at ease, it’s definitely something worth factoring into your search.

Are they accessible?

As times change and with the impact of the coronavirus, many are noticing the benefits of online consultations. A quick phone call may save you from making a long trip to the surgery just for a routine check-up.

You should see if the allergy doctor offers over-the-phone or video consultations. On the other hand, maybe you’d much rather speak to someone in person. It’s important to choose a doctor that accommodates your needs where possible.

When choosing an allergy doctor, you should always put yourself first. Make sure you feel comfortable with them by making note of what you would like in your allergist and having an interview or consultation with them before deciding.

If you’re looking to take back control of your life, Allergy Clinic London can help. Call us now on 02031 433 449 to speak to an allergist.

Two big reasons to stop putting off that allergy test

12th August 2020

Two big reasons to stop putting off that allergy test

Allergies are complicated. With so many allergies out there – over 20% of the UK population suffer from one or more allergic conditions – and their ability to appear and disappear as they please, it can be difficult to separate one-off reactions from a full-fledged allergy.

That is unless you get tested.

But we get it. Getting an allergy test means scheduling an appointment, taking time out of your day to go, and waiting for results. And if you’re only suffering from minor symptoms, is it really worth it? Well, we’re here to tell you that yes, it is!

Safety

You might think your allergy is just a mild inconvenience. Maybe it’s just a stuffy nose or itchy rash that disappears on its own in a few days. But there is still potential for an allergic reaction to become dangerous. And this can happen very quickly.

In the UK, there are about 20 anaphylaxis fatalities each year. And if you aren’t even aware you have an allergy and are continuing to come into regular contact with your allergen, it can be a dangerous game to play.

Getting tested for an allergy provides confirmation of what you need to avoid. And you can stay confident that you’re safe and healthy.

Knowledge is power

Getting allergy test results allows you to take back control of your life. By knowing what to avoid, you can develop your own personalised prevention plan – a way to minimise any contact with your allergen. 

Even if your symptoms were only mild, it can be a massive relief to no longer want to scratch your skin off or to breathe through both nostrils instead of one. Allergy-proofing your environment will keep you more comfortable. And with confirmation of your allergy, you can also educate those around you to minimise your risk of contact even further.

And finally, if you’ve been unsure about what you’re reacting to, you might have avoided a whole host of possible allergens ‘just in case’. When you know what particular allergens you’re susceptible to, you can get right back to enjoying everything else you might have been avoiding.

Allergy tests are the only way to confirm exactly what your body is reacting to. And it arms you with the insight you need to minimise risk, prevent unpleasant symptoms, and take control of your allergy once and for all.

At the London Allergy & Immunology Centre, we offer expert allergy testing to get you the answers you need. If you want to book a test or find out more, get in touch on 02031 433 449.

When is the right time to see an allergy doctor?

3rd June 2020

When is the right time to see an allergy doctor?

Allergies can be scary. The symptoms range from annoying to life-threatening. They make you think twice before you do or eat anything. With such a big question mark hanging over your head, it can be tough knowing when it gets serious enough to ask someone for help.

There are specialists out there whose job it is to treat allergies. But when is the right time to go to one? Maybe you think your allergy isn’t serious enough? Here’s what we think you should consider next time you ask yourself that question.

How does it affect you?

As we said above, allergies can be little more than an annoyance. Many people who suffer from mild hay fever will know what that means. Sniffly noses, itchy eyes, and scratchy throats aren’t life-threatening and an over-the-counter medicine will usually do the job.

But if you find your allergy is affecting your daily life, then it’s time to visit an allergy doctor. In the case of hay fever, it might be preventing you from sleeping at night or over-the-counter medicine is having no effect.

For other allergies, they might be having a similar effect. If they stop you from sleeping, eating, or working, then there’s a problem that needs addressing. Also, pay attention to if they affect other parts of your health. This may be something like problems with your breathing or a past incident landing you in the hospital.

And if you have a food allergy, it might be worth visiting an allergy specialist just in case. Food allergies lead to anaphylaxis which can lead to death. An expert will give you the advice you need to stay safe and avoid the food that’s harmful to you.

The benefits of an allergy doctor

So why would you visit an allergy doctor instead of your usual GP? Simply, it’s because they are a specialist in this particular area and will be better equipped to answer your nitty-gritty questions.

They can carry out an allergy test if you’re unsure what you have, identify your triggers, and give you a treatment plan that works for you. They will also have access to more specialist drugs that should be capable of treating severe allergic reactions.

If you have an allergy, just know you aren’t alone. 20% of the UK population has some sort of allergy. You should always take your health seriously and if you ever think your allergies are causing you harm, don’t hesitate to talk to a professional. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Our allergy specialists are well-equipped to answer any burning allergy questions you may have. Don’t suffer in silence; get in touch with our experts today on 02031 433 449 and take control of your allergies.

Your simple guide to allergy tests

4th March 2020

Your simple guide to allergy tests

Allergies are a nuisance – just ask 44% of the UK population. We are more aware of the negative effects allergies can have on us, such as deadly anaphylactic shocks. This means we’re more cautious of how our body responds to certain foods, products, or animals.

But sometimes your allergy can be a big question mark. You have allergic reactions from time to time but have no idea why. That’s where an allergy test can come in handy. But with so many different types of tests, how do you know which one to go for? Let’s break down some of the common allergy tests you might come across.

Blood test

We’ll start with one of the oldest and maybe one that isn’t for the squeamish amongst you. A blood test is exactly what it sounds like. A sample of your blood is taken and analysed for specific antibodies in your system.

If you are squeamish, then good news! Modern blood tests can analyse for hundreds of allergies with the same sample. So you don’t have to go through multiple tests to get your results. The downside? Blood tests are hard to analyse on their own and are best done along with another type of test…

Skin prick test

This might be the most common test. In this, a sample of an allergen is put on your skin and a small prick made to break your skin. This lets the allergen soak in. If you’re allergic to it, you will see a small, red, bite-like bump form. It won’t take more than 15 minutes.

Usually, multiple allergens are tested at once, making your skin look a bit like a bingo card. But don’t worry, it’s a safe and relatively painless procedure. This type of test pairs well with blood tests to get a complete picture.

Patch test

This is more commonly used to test for contact dermatitis, a type of eczema. It’s similar to the skin prick test in that some of the allergen is placed on your skin. This time, there’s no skin prick and it’s left on you for 48 hours. After that, a doctor will be able to see how your skin has reacted and if you have an allergy.

Elimination diet

This is mainly used for food allergies. If you suspect something in particular is causing a reaction, you can eliminate it from your diet and see if things improve. Feel bloated after a pizza? Cut out dairy and see how you feel. Don’t try this on your own though – always consult a professional.

The same advice can be said for every test. Don’t play with your health; let an expert allergist decide on the test. No matter which type of test you go for, always trust the opinion of your doctors. They can get you back to your healthy self in no time again.

At the London Allergy & Immunology Centre, we specialise in state-of-the-art allergy testing and can even assist with at-home testing. If you have an allergy that’s bothering you, don’t hesitate to get in touch on 02031 433 449.

Choosing an allergist: When, where, and how?

25th December 2019

Choosing an allergist: When, where, and how?

If you’re one of the many people with an allergy, it can sometimes feel like a lonely struggle. Annoying symptoms, potentially on the cusp of an anaphylactic shock at the slightest mistake, can bring you down. But there are specialists out there whose job it is to help you with your allergies: allergists.

Choosing an allergist might seem confusing at first. But it doesn’t need to be. Let’s walk through it so you can get the best treatment and relief from your symptoms. 

When you need to see an allergist

The first thing to consider is if you need to see an allergist at all. Allergies aren’t curable, but there are treatments available to help you with your symptoms. If you have very mild symptoms that go away with the use of over-the-counter drugs, it could mean you’re already using the most effective treatment. But sometimes people struggle to get their allergies under control. 

Your allergies might be out of control if:

• Your symptoms interfere with daily activities, keep you awake at night, or cause you to miss work or school
• You cough or wheeze during exercise and other physical activities, or can’t exercise period
• You have needed emergency allergy or asthma treatment in the past

These are all signs you should seek out an allergist who can help you live more at ease with your allergies. 

It might also be a good idea to see an allergist if you’re not sure if you’re allergic to something or unsure about what is causing your allergy. Allergy doctors run accurate and simple tests to find out what is causing your symptoms so you can receive the most effective treatments. 

How it works

If you think you have an allergy, you can tell your GP who will decide if you need to be referred to an allergist. However, if you seek out a private allergy doctor, you avoid lengthy waiting times and can get the most effective treatment must faster. 

A common allergy test is the skin prick test. In this, a small amount of an allergen is put on your skin. If you’re allergic, you’ll see a small, red bump appear. This test is completely safe and is, at worst, mildly irritating. A similar test is the patch test which sticks patches of allergens to your skin for 48 hours. These are used to diagnose eczema and other similar allergies.

If you’re unsure of what you’re allergic to, you can even request at-home testing kits which come through the post so you don’t have to go out of your way to get your allergies under control. This also allows you to pick the best allergist regardless of geography.

The most important thing to remember is if your allergies or symptoms are causing you pain, anxiety, or affecting your daily life, never leave them unattended. Always seek medical advice.

If you’re looking for an allergies, consider the experts at The London Allergy and Immunology Centre. We provide the best allergy testing methods and treatments available. If you want to book an appointment, just call us on 020 3143 3449.

How to choose the best allergist or immunologist

17th July 2019

How to choose the best allergist or immunologist

Healthcare isn’t something you should take lightly. For some, allergies can be life-threatening. It’s important you have the right medical professional helping you navigate the testing, treatment, and management of your allergies.

An allergy specialist will help you resolve your allergy symptoms, rule out other causes of your symptoms, and give you referrals to other health practitioners. If you think you have an allergy, it’s important to choose the right professionals to help you quickly and easily. So how do you find the best?

Can I see an allergist on the NHS?

It is possible to get allergy treatment through the NHS. A visit to your GP could lead to an allergy test and allergy treatments at a low cost. The only problem is knowing when this might happen.

The NHS is a brilliant health care system. However, it has its flaws, with over 200,000 written complaints in 2017/18. There are long waiting times for appointments and referrals, and if your allergy symptoms are severe, you might not have time to wait. Also, with the NHS, you have little say over who your doctor is.

The system gives everyone access to healthcare free at the point of use, and this is life-saving. Because of this, and the high demand for services, there is a ‘you get what you’re given’ attitude. Despite most NHS workers being well trained, you can’t be sure you’re working with the best allergy specialists out there.

Finding the best specialist?

If you want to receive care from the best allergists, seeking them out online is the quickest way. You’ll be able to look at the services they offer, their prices, their qualifications and awards, and their reputation in reviews from previous patients. This is one of the best ways to gauge the standard of care you will receive.

Feel free to drop in and speak to the professionals before you make your decision. You can only learn so much about someone from behind a computer screen. Face-to-face interaction is important for you to know if you’re comfortable with your allergist.

Private health care is affordable despite what most people believe. If you’re looking for an allergy specialist, finding a private, reliable, trustworthy, and experienced professional can help you avoid long waiting times and get top-class treatment.

At London Allergy and Immunology Centre, our experienced specialists test and treat patients for allergies and provide expert advice on how to manage them in their daily lives. Speak to one of our consultants today on 02031 433449.